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Hi I'm Craig

I'm an economist, a husband, and a father. I'm a Mormon.

About Me

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Right now my life seems dominated by school work, but my focus is on my family. I married my wife in the Fall of 2009 and we welcomed our first child in the Winter of 2011. Our son brings so much happiness to our lives, and we eagerly anticipate the arrival of our first daughter in the Summer.
I currently study economics at Yale. My work focuses on labor markets and Haitian economic history. Although focusing on Haiti seems bizarre, my life has been connected to the country since 2007 when I served as a missionary for the church in Haitian congregations in Orlando, FL. After the earthquake in 2010, I traveled to the country to aid in the relief work. Then in 2012 I spent six weeks there to run a survey for a microfinance organization. I enjoy working with Haitians and hope that my academic work can contribute to improving their society.

Why I am a Mormon

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Though I was born in the Church, my decision to be a Mormon is a personal one. Throughout my life, I have had plenty of opportunities to join other faiths or to leave a life of faith behind. Indeed, my commitment to the Gospel has not been an unwavering trend of steady commitment but has been subjected to variance induced by the winds of doctrine. My experience, however, is that I am at peace when my commitment is the most solid and my mind is darkened when I waver.
As I read the Book of Mormon, I often take a moment to reflect on the power the book contains. I marvel that someone could read it and disregard it as nonsense. Its teachings are just as profound and elegant as any holy book or philosophical work you will read.
Furthermore, the Gospel gives me a framework in which to understand life. As a researcher, I often see results from prominent scholars with conflicting policy recommendations. How can intelligent, well credentialed academics and statesmen disagree on so many dimensions? Though the Lord expects us to use prudence on some issues, many of the debates we have today would be resolved if we lived the Gospel. As I apply the teachings in my life, I recognize that it is true and of God.

How I live my faith

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Beyond praying daily and reading from the Book of Mormon, I enjoy talking to new people and inviting them to hear about the Gospel. More than once my wife has welcomed complete strangers into her home when I invited a new friend over for dinner.

Does The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints endorse political parties?

Craig

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The Church believes that "governments were institured of God for the benefit of man; and that he holds men accountable for their acts in relation to them" (D&C 134:1). While the Church refrains from endorsing political parties and candidates, it encourages everyone to actively participate in civic activities.Show moreShow less

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